Mr. Oatman wrote this song for young people, and it probably made perfect sense to them. To an adult, it might seem too easy. “Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly.” Every doubt? we ask skeptically. But children don’t seem quite so skeptical. In fact, they often strike me as optimistic to the point of ignorance. But Jesus Himself said, “Unless you are converted and become like children, you shall not enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3). There is something — no, a great many things — to be said for childlike faith.

I gave it a whirl recently. I sang this song, and did exactly what it said. I counted my blessings, and let me tell you, friend, the list was beautiful. I realized my God had been there through every trial, every change, every decision. He’d given me many undeserved gifts, and often chose better for me than I would have chosen for myself. Now, I admit, “every doubt” didn’t fly, at least not for good. But it was encouraging to remember that He is a God of blessings, and He doesn’t change. He has taken care of me, and He will continue to do so.

Songs for the Soul

Are you ever burdened with a load of care?Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,And you will be singing as the days go by.